Torrington insurance agency ransacked

TORRINGTON, Conn. (WTNH) -- A 61-year-old man was arrested after police say he broke into and ransacked the H. R. Madeux Insurance Agency in Torrington.

Police say James Mitchell broke into the business on Main Street on Wednesday evening through a fully mounted and secured outside air conditioner.

Once inside, he ransacked the office and stole numerous items, including a Pete Rose signed Cincinnati Reds jersey, money, lamps, computer monitors, a vacuum, bottles of wine, jewelry and office equipment.

No personal client files were compromised in the incident.

Police say Mitchell was hiding the stolen items behind a home on nearby Prospect Street. Everything was recovered by police.

Mitchell was arrested on the scene.

When officer searched Mitchell's home on James Street, they recovered more stolen items from the insurance agency. They also found a four-foot tall marijuana plant inside the home.

He now faces charges that include third degree burglary, first degree criminal mischief and cultivation of marijuana. He was held on a $25,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in court on Thursday.

Police say this is the third time Mitchell has been arrested this month.